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Manila Bulletin devider Opinion devider Triumph in Paris

Triumph in Paris

Published Aug 12, 2024 11:17 pm

TECH4GOOD

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This week, I will deviate from my usual tech-related articles to join the nation in jubilation as we welcome back our 2024 Paris Olympics heroes. It will be a collective feeling of déjà vu, much like how the country felt every time Manny Pacquiao won some years back.


The 2024 Paris Olympics have drawn to a close, and our hearts swell with pride as our 22 Filipino athletes triumphantly return to Philippine soil, their hearts brimming with pride and their heads crowned with glory. From the bustling streets of Pasig to the grandeur of Paris, they carried our hopes and dreams on their shoulders, and they did not disappoint. This Olympics has undeniably been a golden chapter in Philippine sports history, and these courageous individuals are the undisputed heroes who wrote it, showing the world the indomitable spirit of the Filipino.


Leading the pack of our victorious heroes is the unparalleled Carlos Yulo, who etched his name in the annals of Philippine sports history by clinching two gold medals. His journey to success may have been a roller-coaster ride, but his unparalleled skill and unwavering determination have not only earned him the nation's admiration but have also inspired countless young Filipinos to dream big and aim high. 


Filipina boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio have also punched their way to the Olympic podium, earning bronze medals. Their remarkable achievements are a testament to the depth of talent in Philippine boxing and a powerful inspiration to women athletes nationwide. Their stories of perseverance and grit will undoubtedly motivate countless young girls to pursue their athletic dreams. 


Pole vaulter EJ Obiena and lady golfer Bianca Pagdanganan almost made it to the podium by placing fourth in their respective sports. Weightlifter Eileen Ando, Kayla Sanchez in swimming, and Dottie Ardina in golf were also in the thick of the fight, showing the world the kind of grit Filipino athletes are made of. I am sure we will be hearing more about these athletes in future global competitions.


Beyond the medal count, the entire Philippine delegation, including the army of unsung heroes – the coaches and support staff, deserves commendation for their invaluable contributions to this historic campaign. They toiled tirelessly, fine-tuning techniques, mending strained muscles, and providing emotional support. Their dedication often goes unnoticed, but their impact is immeasurable. To them, we say: your hard work is etched in our hearts.


The impact of our athletes' triumphs extends far beyond the realm of sports. Their victories have ignited a sense of national pride and unity, reminding us of our collective strength and resilience. Yulo, in particular, has become a role model for millions of young Filipinos, inspiring them to embrace the power of dreams and to strive for excellence in all aspects of life. His journey from an ordinary street boy to a global champion is a testament to the fact that with hard work, perseverance, and unwavering belief, anything is possible. It should also remind all of us that height is not an impediment to achieving excellence in sports.


As our athletes step back onto Philippine soil, we should show them that we are a nation overflowing with pride and gratitude. Their accomplishments have transcended sports, uniting Filipinos from all walks of life in a shared moment of jubilation. Their achievements have redefined the boundaries of Philippine sports, proving to the world that we are a force to be reckoned with. Their victory is a testament to the Filipino's indomitable spirit.


However, we should not just rest on the glory this bunch of athletes has brought back to the country. There is wide room for the Philippines to do even more in the next Olympics. It is time that we all look at improving our sports facilities and the necessary support system to produce more champions. We in the private sector can look at ways to reward them at the very moment that they make it to the Olympics. We should all continue to show every aspiring Filipino athlete our unwavering support and encouragement. These have been a constant source of inspiration for our athletes. It is this collective spirit of bayanihan that propelled them to always go for glory.


Carlos’ golden feat transcends beyond the Paris Olympics. As he steps back onto  Philippine soil, he carries the hopes of countless Filipino kids who will now begin to dream of Olympic glory. His story will echo through gyms and barangays, inspiring young gymnasts to leap higher, twist faster, and believe in their abilities. He reminds us that dreams are not just mere fantasies but blueprints waiting to be realized.


To all our athletes, coaches, and support staff, we salute you. Thank you for reminding us that dreams, indeed, do come true.

(The author is an executive member of the National Innovation Council, lead convener of the Alliance for Technology Innovators for the Nation (ATIN), vice president of the Analytics and AI Association of the Philippines, and vice president of UP System Information Technology Foundation. Email: [email protected])

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